Oregon Travel Council | Page 29

RAINIER Rainier is nestled along the banks of the Columbia River, with close access to both Portland and Longview, Washington, and a wonderful view of Mount Rainer. Well known for excellent sturgeon, salmon, and steelhead fishing, Rainier also has a city marina, recreational boat launch, and a riverfront park with places for picnicking, walking paths, and tennis. ROCKAWAY Pleasant sandy beaches and majestic dunes grace this small coastal town off Highway 101. Kite flying, metal detecting, bird watching, fishing and a scenic coastal train ride are just some of the activities you can look forward to in Rockaway. SALEM As the second largest city and capital of Oregon, Salem is situated in the scenic Willamette Valley. It enjoys a central location to both the Pacific Ocean and the Cascade Mountains, approximately and hour from each. Activities abound, both indoor and out. From farmers' market overflowing with fresh local produce to local community theater, there is sure to be something for everyone. Restaurants, museums, unique shopping, sports tournaments, and art shows are just a few of the activities you can enjoy in Salem. And be sure to visit the Oregon State Fair every August where great food, music, entertainment, and carnival rides await you! For more information, contact: Salem Area Chamber of Commerce 1110 Commercial St NE | Salem, Oregon, 97301 503-581-146, www.salemchamber.org SEASIDE What are you looking for in a vacation? One of Northwest’s most popular beach destinations, Seaside is off Highway 101 near the northwestern tip of Oregon. Whether you are looking for WWW.OREGONTRAVELCOUNCIL.COM a game of golf by the oceanside, an up close look at marine life in the aquarium, or boutique shopping and art galleries, Seaside offers it all and more. From long sandy beaches to a thriving downtown, visitors won’t be disappointed. Please your taste buds with homemade saltwater taffy and sweet fudge, interact with history through the many historical attractions and monuments, or explore the wonders of the coast. Festivals and events span throughout the year. For more information, contact: Seaside Chamber of Commerce 7 N. Roosevelt | Seaside, Oregon 97138 503-738-6391, www.seasidechamber.com REGION 1: NORTHWEST COAST PORTLAND More than just a major metropolitan area of the Northwest, Portland is a beautiful city full of surprises for the eager traveler. If art is what interests you, Portland was named one of The Top 10 Big City Arts Destinations. The Portland Regional Arts and Culture Council ensures the city is brimming with wonderful art installations, exhibits, and tours. Well known for its beautiful roses and botanical gardens, visitors won’t want to miss a tour of the International Rose Test Garden, the Portland Classical Chinese Garden, and the Portland Rose Festival, which displays more species of roses than any other place in the nation. The mild climate of Portland ensures outdoor activities abound year around. Ski on nearby Mount Hood, golf on one of many lush courses, or enjoy water sports on the Columbia or Willamette River. Downtown Portland is a mecca of boutique, outlet, and specialty stores as well as fine dining and lodging choices. In addition to the Portland Rose Festival, annual events also include the Portland International Beerfest, Holiday Ale Festival, Christmas Ship Parade, and Mount Hood Jazz Festival. SHERWOOD Sherwood, home to the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge, is a family-friendly community in the scenic Willamette Valley. Annual events include Cruisin’ Sherwood, Robin Hood Festival, movies in the park, and Music on the Green. For more information, contact: Sherwood Chamber of Commerce 16065 SW Railroad St. | Sherwood, Oregon 97410 503.625.7800, www.sherwoodchamber.org SILVERTON Silverton, with its stately mansions, many which are now bed and breakfast establishments, a historical downtown district, and beautiful botanical garden, thousands of visitors come to “Oregon’s Garden City” every year. Must-see attractions include the Silver Falls State Park and Gallon House Bridge. For more information, contact: Silverton Chamber of Commerce 426 S. Water St. | Silverton, OR 97381 503-873-5615, [email protected] www.silvertonchamber.org ST. HELENS Some of the best fishing in the state can be found along the Columbia River near St. Helens. Lying southwest of Mount St. Helens, visitors will find quaint bed and breakfasts, day spas, and boutique shopping. ST. PAUL Enjoy the fresh air and friendly faces of this Willamette Valley community. Visit year-round for farm-fresh produce, dinner, and a taste of Oregon wineries and breweries, or attend one of the top-ranking rodeos in the nation. TIGARD Tigard is a family friendly town outside of Portland. It holds several annual festivals, including Festival of the Balloons, Fourth of July Fireworks, and Family Festival. For the water sports lover, the Columbia River and Willamette Rivers offers plenty of opportunities. 27